prepossessing
1
8.2
- adjective
- /ˌpriːpəˈzɛsɪŋ/
- Other objects in the exhibition may be less prepossessing, but their impact can likewise be immense.
Examples
-
As personified in the myths, love is an UN prepossessing little Wretch who flits about in afflicting affection upon mismatched pairs of gods and mortals.
-
The garden, with its vibrant flowers and neat paths, was a prepossessing sight.
-
It is not a particularly prepossessing place even now.
Fiction book (1992) -
It was not a very prepossessing example of the printer's art, to be sure.
Fiction book (1994) -
But if we zoom in on this very prepossessing sort of peaking and expand it, you can see that there's a huge amount of detail.
-
Cletus MacEwan was Emma's most dedicated and physically prepossessing suitor, but he was also the most lacking in common sense.
Fiction book (2002) -
Huge studded metal doors lead to an equally prepossessing two-story atrium presided over by a life-size statue of Jesus.
Academic text (1994) -
The prepossessing actress captured everyone's attention with her charming smile.
-
His prepossessing manner made a strong impression on the interview panel.
Synonyms
50
3.1
Making someone or something look more attractive
18
4.8
Attractive in a way that makes people notice it
10
7.4
Attractive in a way that makes you trust someone who then tricks you
Antonyms
How Attractive
183
3.7
20
4.2
450
1.0
1
8.2
653
1.0
58
2.0
Surface Forms
Morphology
prepossessing = prepossess (transparent) = prepossess + ing
The adjective is formed by the regular adjectival/participial suffix '-ing' on the verb 'prepossess', so knowing the verb yields the meaning.
Etymology
The word prepossessing comes from pre- meaning 'before' and possess meaning 'to take or have'. So, something prepossessing 'takes hold' of you before you think and makes a good first impression.